Es300 Starting Problem (Starts First Time, Need To Wait 15 Mins To Sta

[mytechmafia]

My very first post here...very helpful forum folks.....my issue is below:

I am having a strange issue with my '99 ES300 with 125k miles on it.

I turn the key and the car starts on the first attempt. If I turn it off after a few min and try to start the car again all it does is turn over but the engine never starts. Now if I wait 15-20 mins, and turn the key the engine starts just fine.

I first thought it was the battery so I had the car jumped, but it would just turn over but not start.

I replaced the battery and have the same issue.

Any ideas?

(Thanks in advance folks)

[Mike B.]

Looks like you might have a crank sensor issue. Have you scanned it for codes?

[mytechmafia]

SOLVED! Issue was the key. Took it to a well known imports repair shop and they scanned it for codes. The code that returned was "Communication -- Immobilizer". That means that the key cannot communicate with the computer to kick off that "spark" to start the car.

You could tell it was that because when I would put the key into the ignition, the security light that flashes every second should stop flashing and disappear. It would still be flashing when i put in my key.

I had the key replaced (wasn't cheap) and it's cranking now!

I suggest taking it to a dealer for the key (they were charging $200 to replace and program a new Lexus key) as opposed to getting a generic one.

Also, to recap...several folks recommended I do different things...some said it was the alternator, others the starter, others the fuel.

It was the darn key.

Thanks!!

[goodkarma]

My very first post here...very helpful forum folks.....my issue is below:

I am having a strange issue with my '99 ES300 with 125k miles on it.

I turn the key and the car starts on the first attempt. If I turn it off after a few min and try to start the car again all it does is turn over but the engine never starts. Now if I wait 15-20 mins, and turn the key the engine starts just fine.

I first thought it was the battery so I had the car jumped, but it would just turn over but not start.

I replaced the battery and have the same issue.

Any ideas?

(Thanks in advance folks)

I am having the same exact problem. Been having the same issues for the last 2 months now, Let me know if you figured it out.